Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Highline Release “Believe Me I’ll Run” Ahead of Debut Album

After treating us to three fabulous EPs in as many years, Highline are preparing to release their long-awaited debut album, Shapes We Figure Out. It’s still a couple of months away, but the release of their latest single “Believe Me I’ll Run” should satisfy you until it drops.

“’Believe Me I’ll Run’ is an admission of sorts that you’re all in on a relationship, regardless of whether the other person is feeling the same way,” explained Highline’s lead singer, Sam Rigney. “Unlike a lot of our songs we’ve made in the past, this song offers up a bit of hope as opposed to being down about a situation. It felt good to write a song with positive notes that had some happy memories attached to it.”

Listen out for Highline’s debut album Shapes We Figure Out when it drops on April 19. These guys have been making waves around the Eora/Sydney live music scene, so I’ll be very surprised if we don’t see some shows this autumn coinciding with the album’s release.

Photo credit: Sage Riley

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Yours Forever” – Jessica Mauboy

Jessica Mauboy has one of the best voices in the country. It’s undeniable. She’s been wowing us since she stepped out in front of the Australian Idol judges as a shy teen in Alice Springs. But what isn’t said enough is what a talented songwriter she is. Yet that’s what really struck me on listening to her latest album Yours Forever.

“Yours Forever is me at my truest self, comfortable in my skin, not comparing myself or trying to be someone or something that anyone expects me to be,” Jess says. “When you strip it all back, musically it’s beautiful melodies, storytelling lyrics, rhythms that connect with the soul, and it has a depth that I’ve never gone to or shared before.”

She wrote and recorded these songs on home soil, and perhaps that’s helped her better connect to the music. Perhaps she’s just a bit older and wiser these days. Either way, it works. This album has the floor fillers that Jess is famous for but these fierce anthems have a lot more depth than most of the music that tops the dance charts. “Never Giving Up” is a powerful call to arms in the wake of last year’s No vote. “The Loneliest I Ever Was” is such a poignant look back at the wrong relationship. Hindsight is always 20/20, but it’s rarely brought to life in such technicolour detail. Those high-energy numbers are perfectly balanced with gentle ballads. The past also inspires “Whitney,” a gorgeous song which recalls the power of the musical icons who lifted her up through hard times. “I’m Sorry” is such a beautiful love song which acknowledges that a good relationship isn’t always easy. This is really Jess’ album, with Jess’ stories, but there’s a little space for some choice collaborations. “Give You Love”, featuring fellow Voice judge Jason Derulo, is undoubtedly catchy, but it’s not as moving as “Little Too Late,” featuring Miiesha. The chemistry of these two powerhouse First Nations women is off the charts. There are so many brilliant moments on this album though, it almost feels unfair to single any of them out.

Jess Mauboy has an incredible voice, but plenty of people have incredible voices. What sets her apart is the way that she can share her stories through incredibly crafted songs. That’s what makes Yours Forever a great album, one that has encouraged me to keep listening.

Jess wraps up a string of instores today before embarking on her Yours Forever national tour next month. Limited tickets are still available, but I wouldn’t wait too long before securing yours. Once everyone hears this album, they’ll want them too!

14 February 2024 – Westfield Fountain Gate instore, Boonwurrung Country/Narre Warren (SOLD OUT)
12 March 2024 – Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Gunai Country/Traralgon (SOLD OUT)
13 March 2024 – West Gippsland Arts Centre, Darug Country/Warragul (SOLD OUT)
15 March 2024 – Costa Hall, Djilang/Geelong
16 March 2024 – Palais Theatre, Euro Yuroke/St Kilda
17 March 2024 – Ulumbarra Theatre, Dja Dja Wurrung and the Taungurung Country/Bendigo
21 March 2024 – West Tamworth League Club, Kamilaroi Country/West Tamworth
22 March 2024 – Newcastle Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle
23 March 2024 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
5 April 2024 – Townsville Civic Theatre, Gurrumbilbarra/Townsville
6 April 2024 – MECC, Yuwibara Country/Mackay
7 April 2024 – Pilbeam Theatre, Darumbal Country/Rockhampton
9 April 2024 – Moncrieff Entertainment Centre, Kabi Kabi Country/Bundaberg (SOLD OUT)
11 April 2024 – Empire Theatre, Jagera, Giabal, and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba
12 April 2024 – HOTA Theatre, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
13 April 2024 – Fortitude Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
18 April 2024 – Crown Theatre, Boorloo/Perth
20 April 2024 – Darwin Entertainment Centre, Garramilla/Darwin
24 April 2024 – Adelaide Entertainment Centre Theatre, Tarntanya/Adelaide
26 April 2024 – Princess Theatre, Kanamaluka Country/Launceston (SOLD OUT)
27 April 2024 – Wrest Point Entertainment Centre, Nipaluna/Hobart
2 May 2024 – Albury Entertainment Centre, Bungambrawatha/Albury (SOLD OUT)
3 May 2024 – Canberra Theatre, Ngambri/Canberra
4 May 2024 – Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Wandi-Wandandian Country/Nowra (SOLD OUT)

Images used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jacob Fitzgerald Releases Atypical Love Song “Sophia”

We all know Valentine’s Day is a Hallmark holiday and we should be keeping romance alive all year round, but I think it’s also kind of nice to take the day to celebrate love. In honour of February 14, Jacob Fitzgerald has released his brand new single “Sophia.” It starts as a classic tale of boy meets girl, but this is no ordinary love song.

“Sophia’ is a simple premise: a man falls in love with a woman, but the woman does not fall in love with the man. It’s the tale of a heartbreaker,” Jacon said. “After absorbing the Nashville music scene in early 2023, I came home with the original riff and hook for ‘Sophia’ tattooed on my mind. The enhanced blues-rock-inspired nature of my music consumption gave birth to a song I knew I NEEDED to write. As someone who feels deeply, in my mind, Sophia is distant, hurt and cautious with who she lets love her.”

Jacob has some choice supporting slots coming up. Make sure you arrive early enough for his set if you have tickets to any of these shows:

28 February 2024 – Max Watts, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting The Struts)
9 March 2024 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney (supporting Pacific Avenue)
22 March 2024 – Howler, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting Jack Botts)
23 March 2024 – Downtown Shepparton, Kanny-Goopna/Shepparton (supporting Jack Botts)

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Benny Elder Releases Gorgeous New Single, “Coffee Don’t Taste the Same”

Meeanjin/Brisbane-based singer-songwriter Benny Elder is building hype for the release of his debut album by dropping a fantastic new single “Coffee Don’t Taste the Same”. It’s such a well-written track with excellent vocals from Benny.

“‘Coffee Don’t Taste The Same’ is about longing to belong and have purpose in life. It’s about the feeling we all have growing up, where we are figuring out who we are, where we belong and what we want in life,” Benny explained. “I hope that it helps a few people that feel like they don’t belong to relate and realise there are others feeling the same. You are not alone, and you can find your peace.”

“Coffee Don’t Taste the Same” comes from Benny’s debut album, For Now and Until Then, which hits all the streaming services on February 23. He’ll launch the album for hometown fans at It’s Still a Secret on April 6.

Image used with permission from Footstomp Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kate Gill Calls Out Toxic People with “friends”

Kate Gill is one of those TikTok sensations who deserves to make the leap into the mainstream. The Meeanjin/Brisbane-based singer-songwriter has just released her latest single “friends,” and I know it’s going to blow you away. It’s a catchy alt-pop number, but its astute lyrics which call out toxic relationships are what’s really impressed me.

“At its core, ‘friends’ is about sticking up for yourself and knowing when to leave a toxic situation. In my personal life, I have found this particularly hard with friendships, and (as much as I try not to) I really care what other people think about me. I have this fear of coming across as a bad person for leaving a relationship, even if it’s what’s right for me,” Kate explained. “After being with this person, I always left feeling more and more frustrated and exhausted each time, and eventually I just snapped and decided to do what was best for me. It’s bittersweet because even though I was so angry with this person, deep down I still love and care about them, which is why the song’s climax comes to a soft resolve, which to me is like a huge sigh.”

“friends” provides a taste of Kate’s upcoming EP, which should hit streaming services in early March.

Photo credit: Gabi Rankine Creative

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

THE VANNS Announce Mini-Festival As Part of Next Week’s Regional Tour

The VANNS’ regional tour just got even cooler. Fans in Woolyungah/Wollongong have just had their show upgraded to a mini-festival. Curated by The VANNS, the Bring it on Home Festival will feature some of their favourite local acts including Tyne-James Organ, The Moving Stills, Surely Shirly, The Colliflowers, and GOSH. And after all that fun, punters will still get a headlining set by hometown heroes, The VANNS!

“We’ve always wanted to put on a hometown mini-festival show in the Gong and have some of our best mates/favourite artists be apart of it, The VANNS enthused.

Tickets for that event and all the other shows on The VANNS’ upcoming tour are on sale now. This tour marks the first time The VANNS have played in many of these regional centres, so you won’t want to miss it.

22 February 2024 – Commercial Hotel, Wurundjeri Country/South Morang
23 February 2024 – Westernport Hotel, Boonwurrung Country/San Remo
29 February 2024 – Sooki Lounge, Wurundjeri Country/Belgrave
1 March 2024 – Torquay Hotel, Wadawurrung Country/Torquay
2 March 2024 – Mordi Fest, Boonwurrung Country/Mordialloc
3 March 2024 – Volta, Ballaarat/Ballarat
8 March 2024 – The River, Wooditup/Margaret River
9 March 2024 – Indi Bar, Whadjuk Country/Scarborough
10 March 2024 – Indi Bar, Whadjuk Country/Scarborough
15 March 2024 – Drifters Wharf, Darkinjung Country/Gosford
16 March 2024 – Moonshiners Bar, Kamilaroi Country/Tamworth
17 March 2024 – Finnians, Guruk/Port Macquarie
22 March 2024 – Basement, Ngambri/Canberra
23 March 2024 – Bring it on Home Festival @ Waves, Woolyungah/Wollongong
28 March 2024 – King St Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
4 April 2024 – Magnums, Ngaro Country/Airlie Beach
5 April 2024 – Dalrymple Hotel, Gurrumbilbarra/Townsville
6 April 2024 – Edgehill Tavern, Gimuy/Cairns
18 April 2024 – Cleveland Sand Hotel, Quandamooka/Redlands
19 April 2024 – Kings Beach Tavern, Kabi Kabi Country/Sunshine Coast
20 April 2024 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast

Photo credit: Jye Talbot

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bobi Andonov Impresses With “Anymore”

Naarm/Melbourne-born and LA-based artist Bobi Andonov has given me chills with his latest release, “Anymore.” His incredible voice wows from the first note, but it’s also an incredible well-crafted pop song. Can you believe he’s never released music using his falsetto before? He’s out here sounding like the love child of Prince and D’Angelo, yet someone managing to avoid being derivative. I’m impressed.

“It was the song that I needed to write. It sucks to love someone whose reasons for your relationship are so much more casual and self-serving than your own needs. The chorus lyric ‘I just can’t do this anymore’, was of those things I always wanted to say but couldn’t,” Bobi admitted. “I wanted to explore a complex, ambiguous, and even poetic lyric with the feel of a Bee Gees like stacked melody, thrown into a stripped, alt/bedroom mix. I loved the exercise of writing an entire hook in high, falsetto harmony. I like the contrast between that and the rougher part of my voice”.

“Anymore” comes from Bobi’s sophomore EP SAINT, which drops on May 9.

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Oliver Cronin Drops Fire New Single Ahead of East Coast Tour

Following a massive 2023, Oliver Cronin looks set to do it all over again with the release of his latest single “Hello Goodbye.” The release of this dark pop banger comes ahead of his very first headline tour.

“’Hello Goodbye’” is the first song I linked with Nick and Skimmy on in LA. They saw something in me in that session that I hadn’t seen in myself,” Oliver shared. “It’s a song that is sonically in this early 00s alt pop space that I never would have thought of making if I hadn’t linked up with them. In the same room we wrote ‘Hello Goodbye’, the guys wrote ‘The Nights’ with Avicii. We talked about creating something like that track that became a timeless record, and capture the feeling that song gives you. Nick and Skimmy ended up playing a pivotal part in the album, so this track was the start of that journey together.”
Oliver will play all-ages shows in the East Coast capitals next month. Tickets are still available, but don’t be surprised if they don’t last long!

7 March 2024 – Marys Underground, Eora/Sydney
9 March 2024 – MIC, Meeanjin/Brisbane
17 March 2024 – The Gasometer, Naarm/Melbourne

Photo credit: Satoru Takamatsu

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Chanel Loren & Kota the Friend Reunite For “Carelessly Doomed”

Just over a year after supporting Kota the Friend on his Australian tour, local talent Chanel Loren has released a single featuring the American rapper. “Carelessly Doomed” is a cool alt-pop track that perfectly showcases Chanel’s signature soulful vocals.

“‘Carelessly Doomed’ is an intimate conversation to myself about owning my overthinking and perfectionist tendencies (which I do a lot!). It’s me consciously trying to let things go and accept the process – even if it scares me. I’m in my ‘Que Sera’ era,” Chanel explained. “The feature with Kota The Friend happened really organically. I opened for him on tour at the end of 2022 and we got along super well. Shortly after I started teasing ‘Carelessly Doomed’ and he heard a snippet and immediately DM’d me asking for the instrumental. The rest is history!”

2023 was a massive year for Chanel. She was named an Acclaim All Star, received an ARIA nomination for best soul/R&B release, played Souled Out festival, SXSW Sydney, and The Great Escape in the UK, and also supported IDK, Sudan Archives, and Masego. With this release though, 2024 is shaping up to be even bigger!

Photo credit: Minori Ueda

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Moonsea Entrances With “Violins”

Doctor by day, alt-pop/indie artist by night, moonsea is full of surprises. Her latest is “Violins,” a dreamy, romantic ditty that is bound to captivate you.

“I’ve always been the sort of person that falls in love fast and completely. It’s quite the health hazard,” moonsea joked. “With this song, I wanted to take those feelings of infatuation and desperation and ramp them up to the extreme. My idea for the instrumentation was romantic symphony meets indie rock band, and I really love how seamlessly it evolves from one to the other. The last lyric ‘Please look at me!’, pretty much sums up what this song about at its heart; the deep and terrible need to be seen.”

This beautiful single comes with a gorgeous music video, which moonsea filmed on a Sony Handycam in San Diego and her hometown of Naarm/Melbourne, then edited flawlessly. Talk about a creative talent!

Photo credit: Barbara Luyza